5 Affordable Australia Study Abroad Programs by WorldStrides

I know, I know—out of all of the study abroad destinations in the world: Australia, well the Pacific Region in general, has kind of a reputation for being a bit… well, expensive... and while that may be true—hear us out. One of the great highlights of choosing to study abroad in Australia with WorldStrides is the variety of programs offering a multitude of courses across nearly every academic discipline in an exciting variety of host cities. 

Vegemite—one of those Aussie things you just need to say you tried, mate! #studentbudgetjoys

This means that not only can you find the perfect program for your academics, personal goals, and bucket list during your study abroad experience, but you can also factor your budget into your search for the ideal program. Of course, you will be doing some of your own research and figuring out exactly what your study abroad budget looks like, but there are a number of factors you should take into consideration when choosing your program that can help lessen the impact on your wallet. 

First and foremost, one of the main factors to take into consideration is the cost of your overall program. If you are hoping to have the study abroad experience of a lifetime, and still try to stick to a realistic budget, here are a few of the best WorldStrides study abroad programs in Australia that are still affordable. Definitely give these a once over!

Top WorldStrides academic programs in Australia

1. Semester at the University of Newcastle 

Newcastle is in the Australian State of New South Wales, just a couple of hours north of Sydney by train. Situated right on Australia’s eastern coast, Newcastle is an active, vibrant, and classic ‘Aussie’ city that is not too big, and not too small, and offers students limitless opportunities to explore the scenic beaches, study alongside local students, and get in tune with the Australian lifestyle. 

Save your green while you soak up the blue.

A semester abroad at University of Newcastle is considered to be the perfect balance of lifestyle and learning, with stand-out course offerings including Computer Science, Education, STEM, Liberal Arts, and Business, you can be sure to take in all that Australia has to offer while still staying on track with your degree. As one of the most affordable semester programs in the Pacific, a program at the University of Newcastle makes for a smart choice for students seeking top-notch academics at a budget-friendly price.

“It’s been a little over 4 months since I returned from Newcastle and there hasn't been a day where I haven't thought about my experience. Through this experience I made so many lifelong friends and had my eyes opened to how vast the world truly is.” 

• Duration: Semester
• Location: Newcastle
• Price: ~ $19,450 
• More program info

2. Semester at University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne (UoM), Australia's top university and second oldest, is close to the city center. A semester here offers an enriching experience, blending top-notch student life and Australian culture while giving you every opportunity to explore Melbourne. The university itself is situated on a sprawling campus, complete with vast green spaces and state-of-the-art facilities. 

Timeless architecture meets academic excellence at the UoM Parkville Campus.

Stand-out fields of study at UoM include Engineering, Business & Economics, Medicine & Health, and Law. You'll live in a student residence just a few minutes' walk from campus, as well as immerse yourself in the local culture through excursions and activities. With easy access to central Melbourne, your study abroad experience is sure to offer limitless possibilities for exploration and personal growth while staying within your budget. 

• Duration: Semester
• Location: Melbourne
• Price: ~$24,450
• More program info

3. Summer & semester at Bond University

A private beachside campus with Australia's lowest student-to-staff ratio is what you'll find at Bond University on Queensland's Gold Coast. Academic highlights include Business, Psychology, Communications, Health Sciences, and Film, with small discussion-based classes and a trimester calendar that closely aligns with the U.S. academic year. You can also take part in Bond's Transformer Bootcamp, a hands-on entrepreneurship experience open exclusively to international students.

The program opens with an orientation in Cairns that immediately sets the tone: snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, exploring the ancient Daintree Rainforest, and connecting with fellow international students before classes even begin. When class is out, world-famous beaches, weekend road trips, and the buzz of the Gold Coast are right on your doorstep.

• Duration: Summer and semester
• Location: Gold Coast
• Price: ~$21,450
• More program info

Aussie Aussie Aussie (Oi Oi Oi!) ← Don’t worry, this fave chant will make sense soon enough!

4. Summer & semester at the University of Sydney

Ranked among the world's top universities, the University of Sydney puts students in the heart of Australia's largest and most vibrant city for a full semester or summer of academic and cultural immersion. Course offerings span Business, Finance, Health Sciences, Communications, and more, with the option to earn additional credits through a professional internship placement for students seeking to build real-world experience alongside their studies. 

With Sydney's beaches, cultural landmarks, and thriving food scene right outside the door, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of life between lectures. From afternoon swims at Coogee Beach to weekend hikes in the Blue Mountains, the city and its surroundings offer experiences that tend to stay with you long after your program ends.

“I swam at the Great Barrier Reef, held a koala, scuba dived, and spent many days basking in the sun at the beach. Best semester of my life.”

• Duration: Summer and semester
• Location: Sydney
• Price: ~$8,750 (summer), ~$23,950 (semester)
• More program info

This view certainly beats the one of out of your classroom window right now, no???

5. Summer programs in Australia

Or should we say, winter? But don't worry, the weather from June to August is mild, manageable, and, honestly, still warmer than at most home campuses in the fall. More importantly, studying abroad in Australia over your U.S. summer means you slot neatly into the Australian academic calendar without disrupting your progress back home. 

Programs are available in major cities, with course options spanning Business, Health Sciences, Marine Biology, Communications, and Humanities at well-regarded universities. Outside the classroom, Australia's coastlines, natural surroundings, and culture await exploration. 

• Duration: Summer
• Location: Sydney, Gold Coast, Perth
• Price: Starting at $8,650
• More WorldStrides summer study programs

Browse ALL Summer Study Abroad in Australia Programs

Bonus: More tips to help you study abroad in Australia on a budget

In addition to doing your research and selecting the best program for your desired study abroad experience at the right price for you, there are other cheap ways to study in Australia. Once abroad, here are a few tips, tricks, and considerations to take into account when planning a low-cost study abroad experience in Australia:

Tip #1: Food

Australia is a melting pot of different peoples, cultures, and nationalities and by extension there are heaps of delicious foods, restaurants and cafes to sample. However, you’ll want to remember that eating out too frequently can easily add up, and add strain to your budget. Take opportunities to give your own cooking prowess a boost by getting inspired by some of your favorite local flavors, and try making them at home. This will give you the opportunity to explore local markets and find specialty food stores that you otherwise may not have sought out. Cooking your own meals can be a great way to manage your budget and can help you prioritize your spending while abroad. 

Tip #2. Transportation 

One of the biggest expenses you will likely need to consider during Australia study abroad programs is transportation. From taking daily buses and trains to travel in and around your city, to hopping on domestic and international flights during breaks or long weekends, Australia is a large country, and getting around takes coordination. But do some research on your local public transportation authority, as many cities offer reloadable transportation cards that can offer discounts for residents and commuters. While the savings may be small, they sure start to add up. And when traveling longer distances, be sure compare the many smaller airlines that frequently offer more affordable airfare. 

Who wants to visit gorgeous wineries that double as field trips?

Tip #3. Discounts 

Take advantage of the fact that while you are studying abroad, you are first and foremost—a student! Be sure to always carry your Host University Student ID, as many of the museums, art galleries, and other attractions you will visit will offer special rates or concessions for students. You will also want to check in with your host university’s international office to ask about any discounts that may be available to you as a student. It never hurts to ask if there are any deals available!

Tip #4. Free is good 

Everybody loves free, so why pass up on the fun and excitement that is going on all around you? Be sure to skim through the local (e)newspaper to read about any free events or activities that might be happening in town. You may also luck out and find that local museums, galleries, or attractions may hold events with free admission—perfect when it comes to finding cheap ways to study in Australia. Your university would also be a great resource for joining clubs or student groups that may be hosting events with free food, or organizing events for free or at a discount throughout your semester. Plus, this is a great way to meet local students, future travel buddies, or other international students. 

Tip #5. Staycation! 

While you’re bound to be excited about being in a completely different country, or so close to countless other countries in the Pacific, take the time to realize that there are endless things to do and explore right in your own host city. Carve out time in your study abroad experience to not only live like the locals, but to become a local yourself! Get to know the public transport system by exploring different neighborhoods in your host city, discovering the city’s best parks or beaches, and trying to find the best cup of coffee in the city. If you happen to host friends or family while abroad, you can be confident that you’ll be able to show them around, visit all of the city’s hot spots, and show them a side of the city that is locals only. While you’ll always remember your travels while abroad, you’ll never forget your host city—your home away from home. 

How to Create & Stick to Your Study Abroad Budget

Which of these WorldStrides programs in Australia is right for YOU?

We’re all roo-ting for you to find affordable study abroad programs in Australia!

With all of these factors in mind, you have a big decision to make. Which city is right for me? What is my study abroad budget? What do I hope to gain from my experiences abroad? These are all excellent guiding questions to reflect on and investigate as you make your program decision. But all in all it is YOUR decision to make. Really take the time to do your own research, speak with other students from your university or friends about their experiences in Australia, and utilize all of the amazing resources at your disposal, both at your university and online. 

Organizations like WorldStrides KNOW study abroad—it’s what they do! And their knowledgeable and experienced team is always available to help you explore program options, consider expenses, and elaborate on the student experience down under. Reach out to one of their program specialists for more information about studying abroad in Australia.

Carley Frea

Senior Site Specialist, Australia

Carley is a Wisconsin native and now, Colorado resident who enjoys exploring new places and sharing her love of travel with those around her. When she's not jet setting to a new destination, she enjoys photography, rooting for the Green Bay Packers and learning to ski in the Rocky Mountains. 

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